News Experienced aviation safety leader joins the Board after Senate vote. ALEXANDRIA, VA (Feb. 27, 2026) – VAI congratulates John DeLeeuw following his confirmation by the US Senate to serve as a member of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). The Senate confirmed DeLeeuw on Feb. 25, 2026. “The NTSB plays a central role in strengthening transportation safety through independent investigation and clear, fact-based recommendations,” says François Lassale, president and CEO of VAI. “John DeLeeuw’s operational background and safety leadership will contribute to the Board’s important work. VAI looks forward to working with Member DeLeeuw and all Members of the NTSB in the important work of advancing aviation safety” DeLeeuw is a former US Air Force pilot and has held senior airline safety and accident-investigation roles, including at American Airlines. He currently serves as managing director for safety and efficiency at American Airlines and teaches aviation safety at the University of Southern California.
